This story contains details of sexual assault
A self-proclaimed Indigenous healer who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting 12 of his patients, stood up in court and apologized for “what they went through.”
Cecil Wolfe, 63, pleaded guilty to a dozen counts of sexual assault last month.
The 12 female victims turned to Wolfe for traditional Indigenous treatment. They experienced a range of health issues – including depression, stomach issues, and cancer.
During Wolfe’s sentencing hearing Tuesday, several of his victims shared how they no longer participate in Indigenous cultural practices because of Wolfe’s actions.
“He instilled in me that culture hurts, and healers hurt people, not help,” one woman wrote in her victim impact statement.
Another woman said she lost faith in humanity the day she met Wolfe. She said Wolfe preyed on her insecurity at a time when she was searching for love and acceptance.
The women’s names are protected under a standard publication ban for victims of sexual assault.
The sexual assaults occurred between 2012 and 2021. Court heard Wolfe touched their breasts, buttocks, and pelvic area. He told his victims they had “bad medicine” inside them and he had to take it out.
He would hold up items — crab claws, animal bones, hairballs, snakeskin, ribbon, bullet casings — to show his victims what he had supposedly removed from their bodies.
During a 2016 appointment, Wolfe inserted his fingers in his patient’s vagina. When he removed his fingers, he was holding two small items. He advised the victim she could now have children.
Crown prosecutor Lana Morelli said the aggravating factors are “extensive,” saying Wolfe abused his position of trust and authority and took advantage of vulnerable women.
Morelli also said the impact Wolfe’s crimes had on his victims and communities is “breathtaking.”
An impact statement from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation described how the community has lost trust in all Indigenous healers.
Wolfe also worked with the Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) to perform traditional rituals and ceremonies. STC submitted an impact statement, but it was not read in court.
Wolfe’s lawyer Harvey Neufeld is requesting a sentence of four to five years, saying his client is committed to correcting his behaviour.
Justice John Morrall has reserved his sentencing decision to April 23.
-With files from Laura Woodward
